After a tumultuous stint with the Toronto Maple Leafs, Ilya Samsonov may have taken a subtle jab at his former team upon securing his first win with the Vegas Golden Knights. Samsonov was signed by the Leafs in the summer of 2022 as a budget-friendly project. He had a fairly successful inaugural season, leading to a one-year extension for the following year. With a 27-10-5 record, a .919 save percentage, and a 2.33 goals-against average, including four shutouts, he struggled to maintain or improve those stats in 2023-24. His performance declined to the point where he was waived and briefly sent to the minors, though he never actually played for the Toronto Marlies. His disappointing .890 save percentage and 3.13 goals-against average, despite a 23-7-8 record, coupled with underwhelming playoff showings, did not meet the Maple Leafs’ expectations. In 14 postseason games, he recorded a 5-8 record with a .897 save percentage and a 3.09 goals-against average. Brad Treliving and his team opted for a more affordable goaltending duo for the 2024-25 season by extending Joseph Woll and signing veteran Anthony Stolarz. Meanwhile, Samsonov sought new opportunities in Vegas, where he celebrated a win over the Anaheim Ducks in his debut, making 22 saves. After the game, Samsonov expressed his delight in joining Vegas, remarking on the unmatched atmosphere of the T-Mobile Arena, which he called the best in the league.
"I think it's the best atmosphere in the league. I'm so happy to be here." -Ilya Samsonov
— SinBin.vegas (@SinBinVegas) October 14, 2024
He might have been trying to win over his new fans, or he could have genuinely meant what he said. Either way, it’s hard not to interpret it as a bit of shade toward his old team. The veteran goaltender has shown he has a fiery side, especially with his recent social media feud with Linus Ullmark, so it’s certainly a possibility. For now, both teams appear satisfied with their goaltending options. Anthony Stolarz has stepped up well in place of the injured Woll, and Samsonov relieved some pressure by notching his first win with his new team.
Leave a Reply